Dolfi Gruber

Between 1951 and 1965 long-distance runner Dolfi Gruber won 33 Austrian titles in 5,000 metres, 10,000, 25 km, marathon, 3×1,000m relay, and 3,000 metres Steeplechase. In 1954 and 1958 he finished 16th on both occasions at the European Championships, respectively.

Gruber was a talented multi-sportsman, practicing in speed skating, table tennis, football, cycling, and running, He was selected for three editions of the Olympic Games: 1952 Helsinki, 1956 Melbourne, and 1960 Rome. He competed in the marathon on all occasions and finished 39th, 23rd and 52nd, respectively. Gruber became the most respected long-distance runner in Austria after World War II.

Gruber trained in hotel management but later became a sports teacher and physiotherapist. After his apprenticeship, he was drafted during World War II and sent to the Russian front. In 1941 he was seriously wounded when a machine gun burst and shattered his left upper arm. He narrowly avoided amputation but had to endure 13 operations.

Personal Best: Mar – 2-20:05 (1964).